Page 44 of Love, Will

Henry confessed to me that the sound of his father trying to catch his breath after severe episodes of cough and mouth bleeds still haunted his dreams. And now, my beautiful Earl was in danger of attracting the same fate, by being locked in a cold damp tower, with no one to converse with or to entertain him, until the Queen’s forgiveness would come or his life would end.

He was moved into his new chamber in the tower with haste and the event passed unannounced to the public. Even if I spent my days nearby, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, I was unsuccessful. I tried to alleviate his misery in any way I could, so I sent him books, paper, ink and blankets, hoping he would be allowed to receive them from the guards. Letters were of no use as only immediate family could maintain contact with the prisoners if so allowed.

So I spent my days in bitterness, walking by the tower as often as I could and staring at it, hoping that I would somehow transmit my emotions to Henry and let him know I was praying for his life and release. This schedule of my days followed me for months on end until a letter broke the self-imposed exile I had brought upon myself.

“Dear Will,

I am sorry my son, but I am writing to you with grave news. Your father is now with God. He passed away yesterday and we will have the burial tomorrow; I know by the time this letter arrives with you, he shall be already buried. He went in peace, with no pain. When I woke beside him he was no longer there, so do not guilt yourself for your absence son, there was nothing anyone could do.

Please return home when you can to fix the matter of the house and lands, as the oldest son, you are the sole heir.

With hope to see you soon,

Your mother Mary”

Within three days I found myself next to father’s grave, saying goodbye the best I could. I hoped I had made him proud in life, followed his teachings and took the Shakespeare name into the future, just like he wanted. A few years before his death I had bought him a coat of arms which I knew pleased him greatly. He had also shared his pride that I had done right by Anne and bought her the new house.

Even though I became the heir of the house, I left the management and affairs to mother; she had always been a smart woman and knew the business and price of things, there was no reason for me to change the ways she had followed all her life.

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